Byrne relishes international return

Wales full-back Lee Byrne is determined to be involved in the matchday squad when his country face Ireland in Cardiff on Saturday.

Wales full-back Lee Byrne is determined to be involved in the matchday squad when his country face Ireland in Saturday's Six Nations opener in Cardiff.

The 32-year-old has been a vital player for Clermont during their march to the Heineken Cup quarter-finals but is focussed on making the most of his international return after an absence of more than a year.

"It is one step at a time but I would be disappointed if I am not involved against Ireland - and I am not here to make up the numbers," he told the ERC website.

"Leigh Halfpenny is playing well at the moment and has taken his chance well.

"And there are other young players coming through as well but I am just focused on trying to get into the matchday squad.